This talk will first highlight the challenges associated with upgrading the current electric power distribution system infrastructure towards a smart distribution system that can accommodate high levels of distributed energy resources (DERs). Then, an overview of the research efforts that has been undertaken at the FREEDM center will be provided. The focus will be on the new monitoring and control methods needed for the future smart distribution systems.

Bio:

Mesut E. Baran (baran@ncsu.edu) received his Ph.D. degree from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1988. He is currently a Professor with North Carolina State University, Raleigh. His research interests include distribution and transmission system analysis and control, integration of renewable energy resources, and utility applications of power electronics based devices. Currently, he is a member of the FREEDM Systems Center at NC State focusing on both research and education aspects of renewable electric energy systems and their integration into the electric power distribution systems. Dr. Baran is a Fellow of IEEE.